If you're visiting Somaliland, make sure to visit Berbera, the historic port city on the Gulf of Aden. With its rich history, colorful coral architecture, and beautiful beaches, Berbera offers a unique coastal experience very different from Hargeisa and the inland regions.
Why Visit Berbera?
- Beautiful Beaches
Berbera’s coastline features long stretches of white sand and clear turquoise waters. It's perfect for swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling, and relaxing under the African sun. - Snorkeling & Diving
The Gulf of Aden is home to vibrant marine life and coral reefs. Berbera offers some of the best snorkeling and diving opportunities in the region. - Historical Port City
Berbera has served as an important port for centuries, connecting Africa, Arabia, and Asia. You can still see remnants of Ottoman, British, and Arabic influences in its old town. - Unique Coral Stone Architecture
The old town of Berbera is filled with colorful coral-stone houses, beautifully decorated doors, and historic mosques that reflect its diverse past.
How to Get There
Berbera is located about 160 km northeast of Hargeisa, the capital of Somaliland. The drive takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. The road is fully paved and offers scenic desert and mountain views.
When you book with Horn Expeditions, we provide comfortable transportation, experienced guides, and fully organized tours to Berbera and surrounding areas.
Safety and Practical Tips
Berbera and the coastal areas are very safe for tourists. Just like other parts of Somaliland, foreign visitors are required to travel with a permit and armed escort, mainly to pass through police checkpoints. This is a standard regulation to ensure safety, control movement, and provide jobs for local security personnel.
Our team at Horn Expeditions handles all necessary permits and escorts on your behalf.
Best time to Visit Berbera:
The best time to visit Berbera is between September and March, when temperatures are cooler and more comfortable. The summer months can be very hot, especially between June and August, with temperatures sometimes reaching above 40°C (104°F).
Combine Berbera with Other Destinations
Many visitors combine Berbera with other attractions in Somaliland, such as:
- Laas Geel: 10,000-Year-Old Ancient Rock Art.
- Sheikh Mountains — cool mountain town with great views.
- Hargeisa — vibrant capital with markets and camel trading
Plan your Somaliland visit
Explore more of our tours in our Tour Programs page. For details about travel essentials, FAQs, and visa information, visit Our Essentials and Visa page. Don’t forget to browse our Gallery to see stunning images from Somaliland.
Book Your Berbera Tour Today
Horn Expeditions offers personalized tours in the horn of Africa, giving you an authentic cultural experience. Contact us to start planning your Somaliland adventure. Read more about this Rock Art in this article by the British Museum.
